Entry Word: retreat

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 an act of moving away especially from something difficult, dangerous, or disagreeable <we made a strategic retreat when we realized that we were outnumbered>

Synonyms recession, retirement, revulsion, withdrawal

Related Words flinch, recoil, shrinking

Antonyms advancement

2 something (as a building) that offers cover from the weather or protection from danger <her bedroom served as a retreat from the frequent arguing between her parents> — see shelter